Ep 1. Edward Lee Elmore: Innocence and the Intern

Death Row Stories is a gripping and harrowing docuseries that takes an in-depth look at some of the most notorious and controversial cases in America's criminal justice system. Season 1 episode 1, titled "Edward Lee Elmore: Innocence and the Intern," focuses on the case of Edward Lee Elmore, a South Carolina man who was sentenced to death for the murder of a wealthy white woman in 1982.

The episode begins by introducing Elmore as a 23-year-old black man with a low IQ, who was arrested and convicted of the murder of 75-year-old Dorothy Edwards, a prominent white woman in Elmore's hometown of Greenwood. The prosecution's case against Elmore was largely based on the circumstantial evidence and the testimony of three key witnesses, all of whom were later found to be unreliable and untruthful.

The documentary then takes us through the twists and turns of the case, which saw Elmore's conviction overturned a staggering three times. We learn how a dedicated and determined intern from a nearby law school, Diana Holt, became involved in the case and played a pivotal role in uncovering new evidence that ultimately helped to exonerate Elmore.

Throughout the episode, we hear from a range of experts, including legal scholars, journalists, and former death row inmates who offer insightful analysis and commentary on the broader issues surrounding the death penalty and the American criminal justice system. We also hear from Elmore himself, who speaks candidly about his experiences of being wrongfully convicted and spending nearly three decades on death row.

The show does an excellent job of balancing the human drama of Elmore's case with the broader political and social issues that it raises. It highlights the ways in which systemic racism and biases can lead to miscarriages of justice, and the importance of advocating for the rights of the wrongfully accused.

Ultimately, "Edward Lee Elmore: Innocence and the Intern" is a thought-provoking and emotionally affecting episode that sets the bar high for the rest of the series. It offers a powerful reminder of the immense stakes involved in the American criminal justice system and the urgent need for reform.